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In this Update:
Jesus Was Jewish: Why Is This So Controversial?
Growing up, I frequently encountered Holocaust survivors whose lives had been forever marked by Nazi persecution. I remember seeing the numbers tattooed on their arms, painful reminders of the suffering they endured and the millions who never returned. My Uncle Joe helped liberate a concentration camp during World War II. His generation witnessed the terrible consequences of a society that embraced lies about an entire people and abandoned their fundamental humanity. Those who survived the Holocaust, together with the soldiers who liberated the camps, left us a solemn responsibility expressed in two words, “Never Again.” That responsibility came to mind recently when I shared a simple historical statement on X. Jesus Christ was Jewish. The post received approximately 330,000 views, generating thoughtful responses but also an astonishing degree of hostility, including antisemitic stereotypes and outright rejection of Jesus’ Jewish identity. I was troubled that a fact so clearly established in Scripture could provoke such anger, particularly among people who profess to follow Christ. This is precisely why I introduced Senate Bill 127, legislation requiring Holocaust, genocide, and human rights education in our public schools. This bill would ensure students understand how Nazi persecution developed, how propaganda and the destruction of civil liberties contributed to genocide and how courageous individuals resisted these injustices. Remembering these truths and passing their lessons to the next generation is a responsibility we all share. Read my full thoughts on this issue here. New Investment Strengthens Water Infrastructure in Franklin County
Bear Valley Water Authority in Franklin County was recently awarded a $22.25 million low-interest loan through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority to modernize its water distribution system, improve reliability and strengthen the region’s long-term water supply. The funding will support Phase II of the authority’s Water Distribution System Improvements project, a major infrastructure initiative designed to reduce water loss, expand pumping capacity and provide more efficient and dependable water service to thousands of residents in Franklin County. Access to clean, safe and reliable drinking water is not a luxury. It is a necessity for every family, farm and business in our communities. These are the kinds of investments that directly improve quality of life in our communities. Read more about this project here. Honoring Kuwaiti Minister of Defense Sheikh Abdullah Al-Sabah
It was a tremendous honor to meet His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, Kuwaiti Minister of Defense, during the dedication of the National Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial in Washington, D.C., and to present him with a Pennsylvania Freedom Medal. Having served with the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment during the liberation of Kuwait in 1991, meeting Kuwaiti’s Minister of Defense 35 years later was a deeply personal honor and a powerful reminder of the bonds forged in Desert Storm. Our nations stood together in war, united by courage, sacrifice, and a commitment to freedom. Today, that shared history continues through an enduring military alliance and a friendship built on mutual respect and common security interests. Honoring Jill Etter & Those Who Made the Desert Storm a Reality
Honoring Those Who Made the Desert Storm Memorial a Reality! Behind every great national memorial are dedicated individuals whose vision, perseverance, and hard work transform a dream into reality. During the historic dedication of the National Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial in Washington, D.C., Rebbie and I were especially honored to present Jill Etter with a Pennsylvania Freedom Medal in recognition of her extraordinary dedication and tireless efforts to make this magnificent tribute to our Desert Storm veterans a reality. I also want to recognize Scott Stump (President, CEO & Founder) and Skip Graffam (Lead Designer) for their outstanding leadership, commitment, and invaluable contributions to this historic undertaking. As a Desert Storm combat veteran, I cannot adequately express how much their efforts mean to me and to the thousands of Americans who served during the liberation of Kuwait. Because of their dedication, the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of the men and women of Desert Shield and Desert Storm will be remembered by generations of Americans. Thank you, Jill, Scott, and Skip, for honoring those who served and ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten. Veteran Service Officer Meetings
VETERAN SERVICES – CHAMBERSBURG DISTRICT OFFICE ** Our NEXT available appointment date is THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2026 ** On the third Thursday of each month, a Veteran Service Officer with the Pennsylvania American Legion will be available BY APPOINTMENT ONLY at my Chambersburg District Office to assist veterans and their families. Assistance is available with: State and Education Benefits Military Personnel and Medical Records Compensation and Pension Claims Burial and Survivor benefits Enrollment in the VA Health Care System. Chambersburg District Office *Please note: Office hours are BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. Please call or email to schedule an appointment. Our NEXT available appointment date is THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2026 If you served our nation, we are here to serve you. Monthly Photo Submission
Monthly Photo Submission! Show Us What Makes Adams & Franklin Counties Special! Our communities are filled with incredible people, beautiful landscapes, historic places, and unforgettable moments. I want to help showcase the very best of Adams and Franklin Counties through a new Photo of the Month Contest! Whether it’s a breathtaking sunrise, a family farm, a community event, a veteran being honored, a historic landmark, wildlife, or a special moment that captures the spirit of our region, I encourage you to submit your favorite photos. At the end of each month, I will personally review the submissions and select a Photo of the Month. The chosen photo will be featured on my social media platforms, and the photographer will be recognized for their outstanding work. This is a great opportunity to celebrate the people, places, and moments that make Adams and Franklin Counties such wonderful places to live, work, and raise a family. Submit your best photos by clicking on the link provided and help tell the story of our communities! I look forward to seeing our counties through your lens. Throwback!
Desert Storm, 1991 – Age 27. Just hours earlier, we were near the Euphrates River supporting combat missions. Now, it was time to prepare for our return in accordance with Army requirements. The fighting was behind us, but the experiences were still fresh. The body had left the battlefield, but the mind had not quite caught up. |
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